Many people think that it is impossible to stay sober while traveling. You are away from your familiar environment, and there are temptations all around you. Before getting sober you likely asked yourself, “What is rehab’s success rate?” and this is your chance to put all the work you did in treatment to the test. Here are some of the ways that you can stay sober while you are traveling.
Understand Your Triggers
Stress is one of the things that can trigger a relapse. Traveling can be a stressful experience. That is why you will have to find a way to cope with the stress. For example, if you are feeling overwhelmed, then you should take a walk. Your travel experience will be a lot easier if you know what to do ahead of time if you are stressed.
Take Your Support Network with You
You should have at least one person go with you so that you can stay on track. If you have to travel by yourself, then you should stay in touch with your family members and friends. Checking in with your loved ones can help you deal with the stress and temptation of traveling.
Plan Activities
Staying busy will help you keep your mind off of alcohol. Regardless of where you decide to travel, there are always things for you to do. Most hotels have gyms and pools. You should also take advantage of the museums and other attractions that they have in the city. Not only will you be able to have fun, but you will also be able to explore different destinations.
Take Care of Yourself
It can be easy for you to neglect your personal care routine while you are traveling. However, it is important for you to take care of yourself while you are traveling. You should try to eat meals at the same time. You also need to make sure that you get some physical activity and get the proper amount of rest.
Find a Recovery Meeting
Many people are unaware of the fact that they can attend recovery meetings anywhere. There is likely a recovery meeting in the place that you live. Attending a recovery meeting will make it easier for you to stay on track. You will have people who can hold you accountable. If you are already a part of a recovery group, then you should look for a recovery branch in the area. You should contact the group in advance in order to let them know that you are coming.
Remove the Minibar
Many hotels have a minibar. You should call the hotel ahead of time and ask if there are minibars in the hotel. If they have minibars, they should ask for a room without one.
Choose Your Activities Wisely
The purpose of going on vacation is to have fun and explore new activities. However, you have to be careful of what you do. If gambling is one of the things that tempts you to drink, then it is a good idea to avoid the casinos. It is also a good idea to avoid nightclubs.
Watch Out for HALT
HALT is short for hungry, anxious, lonely and tired. You may be busy, but you should not allow yourself to get too hungry, anxious, lonely and tired. This can be a trigger for a relapse. That is why it is important for you to make sure that you eat meals regularly. If you are too busy to eat, then you will need to keep snacks with you at all times.
Staying sober on vacation is just another way to conquer alcohol addiction. If you are feeling anxious or lonely, then you will need to call someone and talk to them. Taking a walk can also help alleviate your anxiety. Get plenty of rest will help you avoid getting too tired.
For many, traveling induces drinking for prolonged periods of time. It’s a good idea to cleanse your body of alcohol to stay healthy.
